CHILD musicians have joined Stockton Male Voice Choir and the Mayor of Stockton to spread some Christmas cheer.

The Mayor of Stockton Barbara Inman hosted the annual Mayor’s Carol Service at Stockton Parish Church on Friday, December 5.

Nine-year-old local pianist Jeremy Chen gave a rendition of Christmas by Tchaikovsky and there was a special performance by the Salt and Light Puppets. Pupils from schools across the borough also performed songs and readings at the service.

This year the Mayor held a competition for school pupils to design her annual Christmas card. Hundreds of designs were received and the two winners had their artwork turned into the official Mayoral Christmas card.

The winners attended the service where they were presented with prizes.

Jessica Brown, a key stage one pupil at Thornaby Church of England Primary School, won a voucher for four free character pots at The Pottery Pen in Stockton.

Hollie Evans, a key stage two pupil from Ingleby Mill Primary School, took home a family ice skating pass from Tees Active.

The two winners, along with six runners up, were also given sweet hampers to reward them for their hard work.

Reverend Alan Farish, Priest-in-Charge of Stockton Parish Church, led the festive service.

Mayor Inman said: “It was a great pleasure to see so many schoolchildren involved and welcome everyone to Stockton Parish Church to enjoy a wonderful carol service. The sounds of the marvellous choirs brought a warm festive feeling to all.”

To find out more about Stockton Sparkles visit www.stockton.gov.uk/stocktonsparkles